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Karen Carter Peterson: I'm not running for mayor

Karen Carter Peterson, speaker pro tem of the Louisiana House of Representatives, just announced in a statement she would not be running for mayor of New Orleans in 2010.

With Mitch Landrieu and Arnie Fielkow also deciding not to run in recent weeks, Peterson would've been a natural frontrunner in a race where the only declared candidates to date are state Rep. Austin Badon, state Sen. Ed Murray and housing advocate James Perry.

Peterson's statement in full:

Over the past several months, I have been truly moved by the outpouring of support from many members of the community encouraging me to become a candidate for Mayor of the City of New Orleans. It has been very humbling to interact with so many constituents expressing their concerns about the state of our recovery and revitalization four years after Hurricane Katrina. After full consideration and thoughtful examination, however, I have decided not to seek election to the Office of Mayor. Instead, I will continue to passionately serve the people of this great City and State in my current role as Speaker Pro Tem of the Louisiana House of Representatives.

I am more inspired than ever by the level of civic engagement that is now characteristic of many in our City. Citizens have formed non-profit organizations, become active in their neighborhood associations, church groups, and social organizations to move this City in the right direction. It is a testament to the will and resolve of the people of New Orleans. As I have over the past decade, I will work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for our citizens by fighting to provide equal access to health care for those who need it the most, improving our public schools so that our children get the education they deserve, encouraging economic development that provides real opportunities for families, and ensuring a full recovery for one of the greatest American cities.